July 16, 2010 > Largest Solar Installation in Milpitas kicks off at Humane Society Silicon Valley

Largest Solar Installation in Milpitas kicks off at Humane Society Silicon Valley

By Meenu GuptaPhotos By courtesy of Laura Fulda

With the dwindling natural resources and soaring energy costs, the future belongs to clean green technology. Opting for the renewable source of energy, Humane Society Silicon Valley (HSSV) has commemorated the 274 kW solar parking shade structure and rooftop systems at its facility on Wednesday, July 14. With 1,335 photovoltaic (PV) modules, it is the largest solar installation in Milpitas.

The solar electric energy system is owned and operated by Tioga Energy, a leading provider of renewable energy services to commercial, government and non-profit institutions. "Humane Society Silicon Valley's Animal Community Center represents a progressive shift in animal care, and a smart approach to solar was paramount to the project's success," said Paul Detering, chief executive officer of Tioga Energy. The solar installation will provide an estimated 33 percent of all energy used at the facility. It will reduce carbon footprints, helping in saving the environment. It will also lower the electricity bills considerably.

According to HSSV's VP, Marketing & Communications, Laura Fulda, in fiscal year 2011, HSSV expects the solar installation will help the organization save up to $50,000 in energy costs. Through a Solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Tioga Energy, HSSV was able to install the solar project without expending any upfront capital.

The animal community center is a registered Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) project and is on track to be one of the first LEED Gold Certified animal community centers in the nation. "While designing our new Animal Community Center, we worked closely with Tioga to reduce our energy costs while developing a better environment for the animals and the visiting public," said Christine Benninger, HSSV president. "Today, our Animal Community Center not only promotes animals, but also showcases the ease and beauty of energy efficiency, water savings, and building in harmony with nature." More information can be found at www.hssv.org.